KEY POINTS
- Azerbaijan’s ambassador outlines a roadmap for enhancing cultural collaboration with Pakistan
- The upcoming International Music Festival in Azerbaijan was highlighted, with plans for Pakistani participation through music broadcasts and cultural celebrations
- Both nations committed to strengthening ties through cultural initiatives
ISLAMABAD: Azerbaijan’s ambassador to Pakistan, Khazar Farhadov, has outlined a roadmap to strengthen cultural cooperation with Pakistan, including joint music initiatives, heritage projects, and expanded artist exchanges under the Cultural Exchange Programme 2024–2029.
The Azerbaijani ambassador presented the proposal during his meeting with Pakistan’s Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, according to a press released by the Ministry for National Heritage and Culture.
The discussion highlighted both countries’ rich cultural tapestry, emphasising the potential for collaboration and exchange.
Ambassador Farhadov opened the dialogue by presenting a series of proposals designed to deepen cultural cooperation, focusing on joint music promotion, broader cultural exchanges, and collaborative projects aimed at preserving their respective heritages.
At the forefront of his agenda was the Cultural Exchange Program 2024–2029, an initiative signed during the Azerbaijani President’s state visit to Pakistan in July 2024.
He urged for its full implementation, believing it would unlock new avenues for cultural enrichment.
One of the exciting upcoming events mentioned was the International Music Festival set to take place in Azerbaijan from September 18–28.
Celebrating the legacy of renowned Azerbaijani composer Uzeyir Hajibeyli, the festival will feature a global lineup of artists from diverse countries, including the USA, Germany, and Turkey.
The ambassador proposed that Pakistani radio stations feature Azerbaijani music during this event and that cultural centres host related celebrations, enriching the festive experience for audiences in both nations.
Emphasising a shared commitment to cultural heritage, Ambassador Farhadov also advocated for Pakistan’s collaboration in the Azerbaijani Cultural Heritage in the World project, a comprehensive initiative aiming to document and promote Azerbaijani culture across the globe.
This project aspires to catalogue invaluable cultural symbols housed in museums, libraries, and private collections worldwide.
The ambassador underscored the importance of Pakistan’s support in facilitating this ambitious mission.
Minister Khichi warmly welcomed the ambassador’s proposals, underscoring the deep-seated, historical ties between Azerbaijan and Pakistan, anchored in shared Islamic values and cultural affinities.
The minister recounted his memorable visit to Baku, where he experienced Azerbaijan’s renowned hospitality and rich cultural heritage.
He assured Ambassador Farhadov of Pakistan’s commitment to advancing new cultural initiatives.
Expressing enthusiasm for the mutual exchange of artists, Minister Khichi confirmed Pakistan’s readiness to send its artists to the upcoming music festival.
He also proposed inviting Azerbaijani cultural troupes to showcase their art and music in Pakistan, envisioning an Azeri Cultural Festival in Islamabad to further promote cultural understanding between the two nations.
The discussions took an exciting turn when the ambassador suggested promoting traditional attire from both cultures, particularly the Sherwani.
Minister Khichi expressed strong support for showcasing the Sherwani on international platforms, noting its significance and popularity during special occasions in Pakistan’s top echelons.
Secretary of the National Heritage and Culture Division, Asad Rehman Gillani, present at the meeting, emphasised Pakistan’s eagerness to broaden cultural exchanges.
He even proposed sending artisanal craftsmen skilled in Buddha art to Azerbaijan, demonstrating a commitment to artistic dialogue.
